Hansen gets permanent Wales job

New Zealander Steve Hansen has been appointed Wales coach until the end of the 2003/2004 season, it was announced today.

The appointment is dependent on further contractual negotiations with the Welsh Rugby Union.

Hansen took over on a caretaker basis from fellow Kiwi Graham Henry following the record Lloyds TSB Six Nations defeat by Ireland in Dublin in February.

Meanwhile Llanelli's outside half Stephen Jones has passed a fitness test for Wales and will play against Scotland at the Millennium Stadium tomorrow.

Rob Howley will bring his international career for Wales to a close in Cardiff tomorrow. He wants to spend more time with his family and is also suffering from a knee problem.

Colin Charvis, axed from the start of this Championship after putting a holiday ahead of squad training, will captain Wales as Scott Quinnell is injured. Rhys Williams, Mark Taylor, Barry Williams and Ian Gough have all been recalled.

Scott Hastings could lose his Scottish international caps record to Gregor Townsend, who is due to earn his 66th cap. Wales v Scotland, 4.45pm, tomorrow, live BBC2